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NEWS: New Alzheimer’s Risk Genes Identified

Scientists have pinpointed two genes that are linked to Alzheimer’s disease and could become targets for new treatments for the neurodegenerative condition.

Genetic variants appear to play an important part in the development of Alzheimer’s since having parents or siblings with the disease increases a person’s risk. It is estimated that one of every five persons aged 65 will develop Alzheimer’s disease in their lifetime, the researchers added.

Genome-wide association studies are increasing scientists’ understanding of the biological pathways underlying Alzheimer’s disease, which may lead to new therapies, said study author Dr. Sudha Seshadri, an associate professor of neurology at Boston University School of Medicine.

For now, people should realize that genes likely interact with other genes and with environmental factors, she added.